Smooth Target Stocks on a 4" 66-1 - Questions (UPDATES)

[MacA]

3/7/2012 Update: FINALLY bought it today!

3/1/2012 Update: I am close to purchasing this revolver, but have learned some things and have some more questions. I have posted pictures and questions in my latest (post #13) reply below...

I just found out a guy I work with is wanting to sell what he describes as a "LNIB (w/ docs and tools) 4" 66-1 with S&W smooth presentation target stocks". He is traveling until next Monday and cannot get me any pictures. I asked him what price he was considering and he said that he hadn't put a value on it yet. He asked me what I would be willing to offer! So, before I make an offer, I wanted to ask you fine "S&W Educated" folks some questions...

• Would smooth presentation target stocks have been an available option for a standard 66-1? Or would the gun have to be a special edition/LEO gun?
  
• Would the serial number be stamped into these particular stocks?
  
• I am sure if the box is matching, then the code for these stocks will be shown, right? What would that code be?
  
• Anything unique that I should look for? Rare options?
  
• What price range am I looking at. He is not a close friend, but we interact a fair amount at work. I don't want to insult him with an unrealistic price!

I would really appreciate any help you would be willing to offer! Thanks in advance!!

 

[JAREDSHS]

the gun probably came with rubber pach's. the smooth target grips
probably replaced the pach's. If the gun is in good shape, worth--$375 to$450 maybe. Just my humble oinion, others may vary.

 

[153]

Don't make an offer until you see the revolver.

Switching grips was done frequently in the old days. Most all 66's shipped with "Target" grips, denoted on the box with a "T". I would not pay more for smooth grips if they are the standard Goncalo Alves wood.

 

[Lenny_D]

I paid $500 for a 66 no dash with a 2 1/2" barrel where I live.

 

[JCS&W]

Geez MacA, you are out to rid the world of M19/66's! lol
1. I believe, others will know, that target stocks were the standard. The box SHOULD designate what the options were on the M66
2. I do not believe Target stocks were serial numbered to the gun, but I am not positive.
3. With box, doc, tools, etc, in my area $475 to $525 would be the asking price, depending on condition. I do not believe I have seen a single M19/66 around here for less than $425.
To me, it will depend on condition, proper and original accessories, and whether or not you want it. Just my opinion and I am sure there will be more knowledgeable people to weigh in on your question.

 

[MacA]

the gun probably came with rubber pach's.

Are you sure rubber stocks were an available option in late 70s for the model 66?

Geez MacA, you are out to rid the world of M19/66's!

No more than you are!!

 

[PERAZZI]

66-1 would have been target grips...

 

[MacA]

66-1 would have been target grips...

I know that the target stocks were standard. My question is could the presentation stocks have been a special order?

 

[JCS&W]

I know that smooth target stocks were available for K frames. I have heard that if you wanted it on your Smith, and it was available,and you would pay for it, Smith would put it on it. The box should clarify the stock question, but it may just show that it had target stocks and no clarification of smooth or checkered. So, in short, beats the heck out of me.

 

[rck281]

I think you would have to get a $50 factory letter to verify the smooth grips. I seriously doubt that they are original. Most would have come with standard checkered Goncalo Alves target stock without the speedloader cut out. Target stocks are not numbered (there are a few exceptions on early 5 screw guns). I don't think the stocks carry more value from a collectability view. Just pay a little extra depending on their looks and how much they appeal to you - maybe $25 to $75.

 

[Flint Ridge]

Some LE or Comm one's did have smooth presentations on them. IF it has the same cut out the other side that is to show the MSHP logo on this 66-1 of mine. If not then they would be smooth targets - I think?

 

[KJM]

I think you would have to get a $50 factory letter to verify the smooth grips. I seriously doubt that they are original. Most would have come with standard checkered Goncalo Alves target stock without the speedloader cut out. Target stocks are not numbered (there are a few exceptions on early 5 screw guns). I don't think the stocks carry more value from a collectability view. Just pay a little extra depending on their looks and how much they appeal to you - maybe $25 to $75.

He said box is with it. It would have an "S" under stocks, if it was even available that way.

 

[MacA]

UPDATE

Because of the seller's crazy travel schedule, he won't be back to work until next Tuesday. However, he sent me some pictures. After a little research I have learned that the stocks are S&W smooth targets, not presentation stocks as he originally described them.

Just to confirm, would there be an "S" written on the label for the particular smooth stocks shown below? I have included a picture below of the label. As has already been said, I am pretty sure that the "T" indicates the original stocks were the standard checkered targets. I am just looking for confirmation. THANKS!!

BTW, I have him down to $425. What do you think?....

 

[Willeys]

The price look right. I don't believe there is a difference between smooth target stock and presentation stock, they are the same. If there had been an "S" under the "stock", it would have indicated a service (Megna) stock. It is possible a letter from S&W will tell you if it was shipped with smooth stocks, but maybe not.

 

[MacA]

I don't believe there is a difference between smooth target stock and presentation stock, they are the same.

I thought the same thing, however, I found that there is a difference. The presentation stocks have a "speedloader-style" cutout on the right side stock to allow for viewing of special edition stampings on the side plate.

 

[mag318]

That is a really good price and I think it's way under market value. All of the 66-1s I've seen came with checkered target stocks unless it was a commemorative which this one isn't. Irregardless, many people switched their checkered grips for smooth ones. Bottom line that's a great revolver at a great price and a good find. Those grips appear to be rosewood bye the way and are worth a good chunk of change by themselves.

 

[VM]

Because of the seller's crazy travel schedule, he won't be back to work until next Tuesday. However, he sent me some pictures. After a little research I have learned that the stocks are S&W smooth targets, not presentation stocks as he originally described them.

Just to confirm, would there be an "S" written on the label for the particular smooth stocks shown below? I have included a picture below of the label. As has already been said, I am pretty sure that the "T" indicates the original stocks were the standard checkered targets. I am just looking for confirmation. THANKS!!

BTW, I have him down to $425. What do you think?....

Mark - that is a great buy for $425..........don't let it get away.
The "T" does indeed stand for Target stocks - I'd venture to guess that it originally shipped w/ checkered targets and someone put those smooth, presentation stocks on the gun.
Those are Rosewood and a huge BONUS!

 

[opaul]

I don't think you will find a better deal. The box and manual and tool kit could easily bring $75.

 

[MacA]

Mark - that is a great buy for $425..........don't let it get away.
The "T" does indeed stand for Target stocks - I'd venture to guess that it originally shipped w/ checkered targets and someone put those smooth, presentation stocks on the gun.
Those are Rosewood and a huge BONUS!

Thanks for the feedback! I've been waiting too long to get my hands on this gun. This guy's traveling schedule is getting in the way of my "gun fun"!!

 

[weatherby]

Mark - that is a great buy for $425..........don't let it get away.
The "T" does indeed stand for Target stocks - I'd venture to guess that it originally shipped w/ checkered targets and someone put those smooth, presentation stocks on the gun.
Those are Rosewood and a huge BONUS!

Vm I have a hard time distinguishing between rosewood and cocobola
I'll get it one of these days
To me they look like cocobola

I'd be buying that gun for that price don't snooze